Diet Treatment For Rosacea

Rosacea is a chronic disorder of the skin characterized by small pus-filled pustules on the cheeks, forehead, nose and chin, redness of the affected areas of the face and swelling of the small blood vessels in the cheeks and nose.

Often mistaken with common skin problems such as acne, eczema and allergy, rosacea can cause serious complications if left untreated. It usually follows a cyclic pattern with flare-ups followed by remission of the symptoms for a certain period before the next flare-up.

Although the exact cause of rosacea is unknown, several rosacea triggers have been identified that worsen the flare-ups. Among the various factors associated with rosacea flare-ups, foods play an important role in aggravating or suppressing the skin condition. With appropriate diet, risk of rosacea flare-ups can be significantly diminished.

Diet Treatment for Rosacea

Alkaline Diet

The normal pH of the human blood is slightly alkaline, between 7.35 and 7.42. Your body functions best when the pH of your blood is in this normal range. Health problems, especially skin disorders such as rosacea, occur when the pH of your blood falls below the healthy range, and becomes acidic.

The pH of your blood is influenced by the food you eat. Excess intake of acidic foods increases the acidity of the blood, triggering rosacea flare-up, whereas alkaline foods that help to maintain the healthy pH of the blood are considered good for the skin health.

A food that forms an acidic ash when metabolized is known as an acidic food, and a food that leaves behind an alkaline ash following metabolism is called an alkaline food. In general, foods that are rich in the cations of calcium, potassium and magnesium are considered the best alkaline foods.

Fruits

Most fruits produce alkaline ash. The diet for rosacea patients should contain at least four servings of alkaline fruits such as watermelon, pineapple, lime, mango, citrus fruits, apple, cherry, papaya, avocado, peach, banana, strawberry, blueberry and grapes. However, they should avoid plum, prune, guava, pomegranate and cranberry that reduce the pH of the urine.

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Nuts and Seeds

Nuts that are suitable for rosacea sufferers include almond, cashew and chestnuts. Nuts that produce acidic ash such as hazelnut, walnut, pecans and pistachio, should be avoided by people with rosacea. All types of seeds are safe for rosacea patients.

Carbohydrates

Rosacea patients should consume grains and cereals, the main sources of carbohydrates, in moderation.

Healthy carbohydrates rich in fibers are best suited for rosacea sufferers. Oat is the best alkaline carbohydrate food. Brown rice, wheat, millet and buckwheat can be included in diet for rosacea sufferers.

Protein

Healthy plant proteins are best suited for rosacea patients. Lentils and moderate amount of beans can be added to the daily diet.